Woody Witt Enjoys His 6th Week in the Top 5 on the CMJ Jazz Chart

Woody Witt Continues to Hold Strong for 6 Weeks on the
CMJ Jazz ChartThis Week Hitting the #5 Slot, and Peaking at #3 Overall

Written by: Bill Evans

Pots and Kettles marks the third release on Blue Bamboo Music of saxophonist/composer Woody Witt, but the overall eight CD as a leader. The main-goal of most jazz musicians is to tell a story with their music and take the listener on their own personal musical journey.

Woody accomplishes this and far more on Pots and Kettles. The CD starts out with the title track, “Pots and Kettles.” It is reminiscent of the writing of the late great Don Grolnick, with its very child like melody. Woody starts his solo slowly, building to an emotional crescendo that releases into an exciting piano solo by Gary Norian. To complete the rhythm section, there is Anthony Sapp, bass, Mark Simmons, drums, and Chris Cortez, guitar (on 3 tracks). They all have the sensitivity to really shine as individuals with their own personal styles. I, as the listener feel they can really communicate as one unit, playing off each other’s nuances and allowing the music to flow effortlessly.

“Listen Here,” is practically a Soul Jazz classic made popular by the late great saxophonist Eddie Harris and pianist Les Mccann from their “Live in Montreaux” session recorded in 1969. Here, Woody shows us his soulful side, while tipping his hat to Harris.

The rhythm section grooves and swings hard. Harris would have been proud. With gorgeous ballads like “Never Very Far” and “Just Because,” you hear some of the depth and beauty of this recording. The music is allowed to breathe and take on a spirit all its own.

Pots and Kettles is a refreshing work of music by musicians who are playing the art form at its highest level. While listening I am sometimes reminded of the old Blue Note jazz recordings of the early sixties, while at the same time, they writing and playing is very contemporary and modern.

Like a piece of art, I’m sure with each listen I will hear different things in the music. This music is ageless.